Thrift, Trade and Share

14 comments
My parents bought all our furniture at auctions, were given used items (otherwise known as hand-me-downs) or created most everything from scratch. New was not something I grew up with. And now repurposing is hip for ecological or economical reasons. It is funny how things come full circle.
A couple weeks ago 2 of my daughters came home from the local thrift store super excited about a find. Shelbie discovered a nearly a full set of vintage china with this fabulous pattern from the 50s. Someone's grandma may have passed away and the family (probably men) took the dishes to the thrift store. I was just glad they didn't throw them out! These dishes will be loved by another generation now.
A little while back I saw this bag on Brandie's blog. I told Brandie how much I liked it and she offered to trade me and make a bag for me. I love the tapered handles and the reinforced bottom.
I was really excited to trade. I love making trades. And Brandie makes darling things.
I decided it was the perfect tote bag for me to take to with me to Spring Quilt Market. I really love the classic red with that beautiful black and taupe queenly flower. I traded Brandie with some of my patterns. Thanks Brandie. I'm so happy to take the bag to market.Heather from RetroFabulous Blog is someone I came across a few years back when I made my feeble attempt at a Dear Jane quilt and starting following her for tips and encouragement. Heather recently shared her Sandi Henderson Bits & Pieces book with me.
Heather made these incredibly darling slippers from Sandi's book. I mentioned I wanted to make some for Allison and so Heather sent me the book as a share. Isn't that fantastic. I love sharing. The book is great and I've spotted several projects I'd love to work on.
Heather also included this perfect, perfect tea towel as a gift. It is so me. It has a teapot and teacup...
and if you look at the top it has a bee! I love it. Thanks so much Heather. It will look perfect hanging in my kitchen.

Both Heather and Brandie have mad skills and I'm so glad I've gotten to know them both. They are great girls. Repurposing with friends is wonderful hip thing to do, especially when I'm the one getting the good stuff.

-nanette
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14 comments

Nedra said...

You always come up with the most wonderful ideas, like this post of sharing with friends. I love how you initiate back and forth trades. Great idea in today's economy, plus it increases the bonds with your friends.

Brandie said...

I so glad you like your bag.
I have plans for your patterns. now that I a little more free time, I hope to get them done.
It was a great trade and I think we both won!

Melissa @Lilac Lane said...

I grew up with a dad who was a teacher, a mom who stayed home with us and six, yes six, kids. All we ever knew was hand me downs, whether furniture or clothing. We went to a lot of auctions. The bug never left me.

Jane's Fabrics and Quilts said...

Oh I love to trade and share that is the best. Funny how old is now new!!

Retrogirl said...

Hi Nanette!

I have to share that my husband thought the towel was an embroidery project. Can you imagine? You'd be waiting another couple of years for a hand embroidered recipe towel. =D

I love swapping goodies, buying vintage & upcycling. Coming from practical stock, it's something we do naturally. Having friends join in is just an extra fun bonus.

All my best,
Heather

pratima said...

Old china sets are so elegant... I'm glad this beautiful set found a loving home. Trading and sharing with friends is a lovely idea, Nanette and not to mention all the fun!
The red and black bag is gorgeous and seems like q good size to take to the market.

Lily Boot said...

lovely stuff! the china is beautiful - lucky girls. And those slippers - they are darling! I've looked at that book so many times at the store, and sold several copies over the last few months - but haven't seen those slippers - I think it shall have to come home to my bookshelf now :-) Enjoy your treats.

Des said...

ooohhhh, i'll be looking for you and that stylish bag at market! ;)

Kim D. said...

Hi Nanette, what a nice post. Love those dishes, I like to pick up a tea cup now and then at the thrift store. I've found a few with gold leaf edging and they are such treasures. How fun to trade the used books and patterns with your friends. That bag is adorable.

Corrie said...

Definitely going to be able to recognize you now. Man, I don't know what bag I'm taking...got to figure that out. Great trade!

Elaine/Muddling Through said...

Isn't it fun to get what you want without spending a ton of money! Sounds like you've passed that wisdom down to your daughter as well.

Glenna @ Hollyhock Quilts said...

What a fun post! I love the china and all your goodies. Thanks for sharing!!

Momoo said...

Posting a comment has become very difficult. Google does not want to accept my Yahoo blog account.
So I'll try again....4th time! I hope Shelbie enjoys her "new" dishes. We get quite a few sets of vintage dishes at our church Mission Store. It's always upsetting when a customer will complain about the price...about $5 for the whole set. New dishes may be cheap but they don't have the same quality and aren't made in the USA.

Momoo said...

Posting a comment has become very difficult. Google does not want to accept my Yahoo blog account.
So I'll try again....4th time! I hope Shelbie enjoys her "new" dishes. We get quite a few sets of vintage dishes at our church Mission Store. It's always upsetting when a customer will complain about the price...about $5 for the whole set. New dishes may be cheap but they don't have the same quality and aren't made in the USA.